Ghana Profile

Young Boy Learning Numbers in Ghana

In Ghana, your campus group will work together on a community-identified initiative while enjoying unparalleled access to the rich traditions of West African culture. Working side-by-side with local people, your group can have a positive impact in the community improving future prospects for children and youth in the Volta Region of Ghana through education and promoting positive childhood development.

Volta Region, Ghana

Location: On the coast of West Africa
Literacy Rate: Men 66%; Women 50%
Interesting Fact: Ghana became the first African country to gain independence in 1957
# CCS Volunteers to Date: Over 2,900 since 1998

Despite a complex history as a main port within the Trans-Atlantic slave trade, Ghana is both a progressive and traditional country. The clan and tribal systems remain an important part of the culture — many traditional chiefs operate parallel to the democratically elected government. CCS’ Ghana program site is located in the Volta Region, where the Ewe tribe is based and a strong sense of family and cultural roots is apparent.

The Volta Region’s landscape is very diverse; you’ll come across old slave forts, bustling cities, and rural farming and fishing villages. Though traditional West African music, religious drumming, and dancing are common, your campus club will quickly learn that it’s the Ghanaian people who will leave the greatest impression.

Why Volunteer in the Volta Region

In recent years, many advances have been made to improve healthcare, hygiene, and education in Ghana. However, malnutrition, disease, and a large economic divide have hindered some of this progress. There is a large divide between those who are able to afford and secure a quality education, and those who cannot. And, the community copes with low literacy rates, high unemployment rates, and a lack of available resources.

Since 1998, CCS volunteers have supported grassroots organizations which address the many challenges in the region. Your campus club can help by:

• Promoting Childhood Development  
  Many orphanages within the region are full of children and devoid of resources and adequate staff. Your campus club can lend helping hands to take care of children, offering the one-on-one attention that promotes positive childhood development.
• Educating At-Risk Youth  
  More than 70 languages are spoken within Ghana, however English is the official language and most often used for business, education, and government. Your campus club can help to offer conversational English instruction at free or low-cost for children and young adults who would otherwise not be able to afford a quality education.

Learn more about volunteering in the Volta Region of Ghana with CCS.